Record snow drought in Western US raises concern for water shortages and wildfires

The American West, excluding California, is facing a record-breaking snow drought driven by unprecedented heat rather than a lack of precipitation. Scientists report that snow cover and depth are at their lowest levels in decades, with 67 weather stations recording their warmest winter periods on record. Current snow cover is approximately 155,000 square miles, significantly lower than the normal 460,000 square miles. Oregon, Colorado, and Utah have reported the lowest statewide snowpacks since records began in the early 1980s. This deficiency is caused by precipitation falling as rain instead of snow due to high temperatures linked to climate change. The lack of mountain snowpack threatens future water supplies for agriculture, municipal use, and hydropower, particularly in the Upper Colorado River Basin. Experts also warn that the early disappearance of snow could lead to an accelerated and more severe wildfire season as soils and vegetation dry out prematurely.